Eliza Bernard

With an illustrious career spanning over 17 years, Eliza stands as a beacon of excellence in sculpting and guiding the ‘People’ functions at various companies. Her journey, rich with challenges and triumphs, has seen her navigate the turbulent waters of startups, foster growth in emerging firms, and maintain equilibrium in mature organizations.

A cornerstone of Eliza’s approach is her innate ability to form strategic alliances with C-level executives, leaders, and managers. Through these collaborations, she has been instrumental in laying down operations and crafting business environments that not only function effectively but also consistently achieve desired results. Her expertise shines brightly in areas like compensation strategy, performance management, and operational strategy.

Under Eliza’s leadership, both in-person and remote workplaces have thrived, gaining national recognition. A testament to her proficiency is the slew of awards her initiatives have garnered, most notably including the accolades of ‘Best Places to Work in the U.S.’ and ‘Best Places to Work in San Francisco’.

In Eliza, companies don’t just find a professional; they discover a visionary dedicated to creating workplaces where people flourish and business thrives.

For more information about WOVEN: wovenhr.com

In the intricate world of Human Resources, where corporate aspirations intertwine with personal ambitions, Marisa has emerged as a trailblazer, bringing her nuanced understanding to every organizational challenge. With two decades of seasoned expertise under her belt, Marisa’s career is a testament to her dedication to the human element in businesses, especially in the non-profit realm.

Every organization, be it for-profit or non-profit, is built upon the strength and capabilities of its people. Marisa’s vast experience leading People teams illuminates her ability to nurture, guide, and support these human assets. What sets her apart is not just her technical acumen, but the depth of trust she cultivates within her relationships across organizations.

Being a fervent advocate for both employees and executives, Marisa has mastered the art of harmonizing business objectives with employee well-being. Her hands-on approach has enabled her to tackle complex HR challenges, ensuring that solutions are not just technically sound, but also emotionally resonant. She cherishes the process of understanding the unique strengths of individuals, guiding them to harness their potential, and facilitating an environment where they flourish.

Marisa’s SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources) and SPC (Scaled Professional Scrum) certifications further underscore her dedication to her craft. These credentials highlight her prowess in strategic policy-making, workforce planning, and employee relations, as well as her understanding of agile principles and their application in organizational structures.

Beyond her professional achievements, Marisa’s philanthropic spirit shines brightly. Serving as the Board Secretary for a San Francisco non-profit is not just a role she undertakes; it’s a manifestation of her commitment to giving back to the community. This dual role, both as an HR leader and a non-profit board member, offers her a unique perspective, enabling her to bridge corporate objectives with societal needs.

In Marisa, organizations find a strategic partner, an empathetic listener, and a visionary leader. As she continues to shape the future of HR practices, especially in the non-profit sector, Marisa stands as an inspiration to all who value the confluence of business, humanity, and social impact.

For more information about WOVEN: wovenhr.com

With an illustrious career spanning over a decade, Sarah has established herself as a foremost expert in people operations. Her deep understanding and proficiency in strategic and tactical people programs have been pivotal across numerous phases of the employee lifecycle, empowering organizations to achieve their human capital aspirations.

At the heart of Sarah’s approach is her unparalleled expertise in core people operations, combined with a nuanced understanding of leadership consulting, job architecture, compensation structures, and the intricate details of company-specific, legal policy implementation. A fervent believer in nurturing relationships, Sarah not only meets but often exceeds client expectations, laying the foundation for enduring partnerships that stand the test of time.

Sarah’s unique philosophy of “slow down to go fast” ensures that every organization she works with benefits from a perfectly tailored people infrastructure. This approach is not just about addressing immediate needs but is aimed at driving significant business impact and cultivating a positive experience for every employee.

Academically, Sarah’s credentials are equally impressive. She boasts a Master’s degree in People Development, which underscores her commitment to fostering organizational growth and individual excellence. Complementing this, her progressive business background and certifications in both HR and health coaching provide her with a holistic and comprehensive perspective. This fusion of academic acumen and practical experience ensures that Sarah brings a multifaceted approach to her role, allowing her to offer both innovative solutions and time-tested strategies to her clients.

In a world where the significance of people operations is ever-increasing, Sarah stands out as a beacon of knowledge, dedication, and passion, ensuring that every organization she collaborates with realizes its fullest potential.

For more information about WOVEN: wovenhr.com

In the intricate weave of organizational dynamics, Angela stands out as a beacon of knowledge and expertise in the realm of Human Resources and Operations. Her journey spanning over 15 years is more than just a testament to her dedication—it’s a chronicle of her deep-seated passion for shaping the People function, ensuring it operates seamlessly and strategically.

A distinguished generalist, Angela’s prowess isn’t just confined to one facet of HR. She deftly supports everyone, from the C-suite to entry-level employees, shaping HR strategies that resonate with the ethos of the organization. With her at the helm, HR policies are not just drafted but crafted, ensuring they resonate with the culture and goals of the organization.

One of Angela’s core strengths is her hands-on approach, which has paved the way for her to build relationships founded on trust, respect, and mutual understanding. Whether it’s a fledgling tech startup buzzing with innovative energy or a well-established institution built on decades of legacy, Angela’s adaptability and versatility shine through. Her collaborative work with WOVEN clients further attests to her capability to resonate with diverse organizational needs and dynamics.

Her mantra is both profound and practical: she believes that HR, at its core, can be a strategic advantage for any organization and, at the same time, remain uncomplicated and straightforward. With this perspective, she has demystified HR for many, turning it from a daunting department to a crucial strategic ally.

In essence, Angela is more than just an HR leader; she’s a visionary who understands the nuances of human interactions, operations, and organizational success. With her guidance, HR becomes more than just a department—it transforms into the very heart and soul of an organization, driving its mission and vision forward.

For more information about WOVEN: wovenhr.com

With a distinguished career spanning over three decades in the realm of Human Resources, Carmela stands as a testimony to dedication, innovation, and leadership. As a Partner at SD Mayer, Carmela’s expertise now fuels WOVEN, the firm’s dedicated subsidiary for HR Solutions, guiding its trajectory towards new pinnacles of success.

What truly sets Carmela apart is her experience of trailblazing the HR landscape in numerous companies. Notably, she has been the inaugural Vice President of Human Resources at nine distinct companies, including six start-ups. Such a track record not only speaks to her ability to lay foundational HR infrastructures but also showcases her agility in navigating diverse industry challenges, ranging from technology and retail to hospitality and wholesale.

Her seasoned approach to HR is rooted in a profound understanding of the human element in business. Carmela has always prioritized strengthening communication, honing leadership abilities, and cultivating fruitful working relationships among employees at all hierarchies. The results of her endeavors are palpable, manifesting in enhanced organizational productivity and positive business outcomes.

Taking her commitment to leadership further, Carmela pursued and completed her certification as an Executive and Leadership Coach through the prestigious Hudson Institute. This has further equipped her to mentor and guide leaders in maximizing their potential and effectuating transformative change in their respective organizations.

Outside the corporate realm, Carmela’s passion for making a difference extends to the community. She has commendably served as the Board Chair for a notable non-profit organization based in San Francisco, showcasing her commitment to societal growth and upliftment.

Carmela’s legacy in HR is a blend of innovation, strategy, and an unwavering commitment to people-centric solutions. Her leadership at WOVEN and SD Mayer is not just about steering businesses towards success, but more importantly, about shaping environments where every individual can thrive and contribute their best.

For more information about WOVEN: wovenhr.com

Katie’s journey in the world of accounting is an inspiring tale of adaptability and passion. With an impressive stint at Blend, LLC, she brings a wealth of experience to SD Mayer, particularly in the realms of e-commerce and small businesses – sectors that are dynamic, ever-evolving, and crucial in today’s digital age.

Her expertise with tools like QBO and Bill.com demonstrates her commitment to stay ahead in the technology curve, ensuring that she not only understands the nuances of her field but also harnesses the power of modern tools to deliver excellence.

While her professional acumen is commendable, what makes Katie truly stand out is her personal story. Originally a California native, she now embraces the beautiful landscapes of North Carolina. Working from her home office, she perfectly balances the demands of her profession with the joys of motherhood. Exploring the picturesque coastal regions with her kids, Katie’s weekends are a blend of adventure and bonding. Whether it’s supporting her son’s cub scout activities or fueling her daughter’s passion for cars, she’s a hands-on mom who loves every bit of it.

Katie’s story is a testament to the modern professional – someone who seamlessly blends work with personal passions, and who isn’t bound by geographical confines. At SD Mayer, she’s not just an accountant; she’s a symbol of flexibility, commitment, and the joy of pursuing one’s passions, be it accounting, coastal adventures, or the thrill of a car race.

Avery Hester joined our firm in 2023, bringing with him a wealth of expertise and knowledge to the audit department. With six years of experience in diverse sectors, Avery has honed his skills across various industries including Government, Financial Institutions, Healthcare, and Single Audits. His deep understanding of these fields allows him to provide exceptional insights and thorough auditing services to our clients. Previously he worked for a top 100 accounting firm in Louisiana, and was a Louisiana Legislative auditor.

Avery’s academic background is rooted in a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Southeastern Louisiana University. His educational foundation has equipped him with a strong grasp of accounting principles and practices, enabling him to excel in his role.

Outside the professional arena, Avery is deeply committed to enjoying life and making the most of his personal time. He cherishes moments spent with family and friends, and he’s an avid participant in local live performances. Whether it’s working on personal projects or attending events, Avery is always on the lookout for new experiences and learning opportunities.

His passion for discovery is evident in his ever-growing bucket list, which is a testament to his zest for life and continuous pursuit of knowledge. Avery’s enthusiasm for learning and experiencing new things not only enriches his personal life but also adds a unique perspective to his professional work, making him a valuable asset to our team and clients.

Since coming on board in 2022, Alexandra has swiftly made her mark within SD Mayer’s expanding wealth management practice. Even though she’s based in the picturesque surroundings of Kentucky, the wonders of technology bring her skills seamlessly to the team. Alexandra’s prowess in managing our CRM system and overseeing the back office ensures that our operations run smoothly, while her talent in tracking leads helps the firm continually grow its footprint in the wealth management sector.

A notable moment in her personal life was when Alexandra and her husband, Alex, welcomed their baby girl into the world in November 2022. Her journey into motherhood adds another dimension to her role, as she understands the significance of financial stability and planning for families.

Educated at the University of Cincinnati, Alexandra majored in Sports Administration, a degree that instilled in her the values of teamwork, dedication, and strategic thinking—skills that she channels every day in her professional realm.

Beyond her role at SD Mayer, Alexandra harbors a deep love for the enchanting world of Disney. She dreams of traveling to every Disney Park worldwide, immersing herself in the magic each destination has to offer. As a passionate coach for Track & Field for the past six years, she also finds joy in the athletic arena, supporting and cheering on her team as they push boundaries and achieve greatness.

In Alexandra, SD Mayer finds not just a dedicated professional but also a vibrant individual whose passions and pursuits enrich our team’s tapestry.

SECURITIES AND ADVISORY DISCLOSURE:

Securities offered through Valmark Securities, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC. Fee based planning offered through SDM Advisors, LLC. Third party money management offered through Valmark Advisers, Inc a SEC registered investment advisor. 130 Springside Drive, Suite 300, Akron, Ohio 44333-2431. 1-800-765-5201. SDM Advisors, LLC is a separate entity from Valmark Securities Inc. and Valmark Advisers, Inc. 

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Nick’s entry into our firm in 2022 heralded a blend of theoretical insight and practical expertise. As a consultant in the Outsourced Accounting practice, he has been instrumental in ensuring that our clients, spanning a myriad of industries, receive the best bookkeeping and bill pay support.

His proficiency doesn’t just stop at routine bookkeeping. With over five years under his belt, Nick has honed his skills in the niche areas of accounts payable and accounts receivable. His adeptness in managing month-end closings and meticulous attention to details, especially in crafting accurate amortization and depreciation schedules, speaks volumes about his dedication to the profession.

Nick’s academic background is equally commendable. By majoring in both Finance and Economics at Sierra Nevada University, he didn’t just gain knowledge in the technicalities of finance but also acquired a broader understanding of economic theories and how they impact real-world financial scenarios. This dual-edge in his education gives him a unique vantage point to approach accounting challenges with a macro and micro perspective.

It’s this combination of academic grounding and hands-on experience that makes Nick an invaluable asset to our firm and our clients. As industries evolve and financial paradigms shift, professionals like Nick ensure that our accounting practices are not just accurate but also relevant and forward-thinking.

In the intricate world of taxation, precision, dedication, and a deep understanding of the continually evolving regulations are paramount. Ruiqi, with over a decade of professional experience, embodies these virtues, making her an indispensable asset to SD Mayer since 2019.

Based from her home office, Ruiqi’s versatility is evident. From S-corps and partnerships to individuals, non-profits, and trusts, her comprehensive experience ensures that every tax return she touches becomes a masterclass in detail, precision, and adherence to the highest professional standards.

Before her stellar association with SD Mayer, Ruiqi’s expertise was honed at notable accounting firms like Squar Milner and Greenstein, Rogoff, Olsen & Co LLP. The depth and breadth of experience she garnered from these roles have equipped her with insights into diverse industries, clientele, and the ever-evolving challenges of the tax world.

What sets Ruiqi apart is not just her vast practical experience but also her strong academic background. She pursued both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Accounting from the revered Brigham Young University, a testament to her dedication and passion for the field.

At SD Mayer, Ruiqi isn’t just an expert crunching numbers; she is a tax strategist who goes beyond the obvious. For her clients, this means not only impeccable tax returns but also insights, advice, and forward-looking strategies that cater to both immediate requirements and long-term financial health.

Ruiqi’s journey, marked by illustrious firms and a dedication to continuous learning, ensures that every client engagement is not just a transaction but a relationship built on trust, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

With a career journey that started in 2008, Frisye’s commitment to accounting has been unwavering. Her early foray into the industry began after her graduation from college, and since then, she’s carved out a distinct niche for herself, collaborating with some of the industry’s most esteemed names. Her professional stints with Burr Pilger Mayer (BPM), TNT, Inc. Certified Public Accountants, and Armanino are a testament to her versatility and proficiency in the field.

From her initial role as a Tax Associate, Frisye’s innate talent, dedication, and expertise facilitated her steady rise to the position of Tax Manager. Her ability to understand complex financial structures and deliver strategic tax solutions has been consistently recognized and valued by her peers and clients alike.

Despite her bustling professional life, Frisye has always maintained a balanced approach. Presently, she collaborates with us at SD Mayer on a part-time basis, working remotely. This arrangement not only underscores her adaptability but also her dedication to her role as a mother, as she diligently balances her professional commitments with raising her child.

Frisye’s educational credentials are as impressive as her professional ones. She began her academic journey at De Anza College, where she earned an AA in Liberal Arts. Later, she advanced to Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business, securing a Bachelor’s degree in both Accounting and Finance. With her comprehensive educational background and vast industry experience, Frisye is an invaluable asset to SD Mayer and the broader accounting community.